Snapshot
- Overview
- A castor-derived ingredient that helps preserve products and soften skin.
- Category
- Preservative
- Type
- Preservative
Glyceryl Undecylenate
Glyceryl undecylenate is an ester of glycerin and undecylenic acid, commonly sourced from castor oil for personal care products. It's included to control microbial growth in formulas and add light emolliency for a smoother application experience.
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Our take
Is Glyceryl Undecylenate a Good Ingredient?
It's Good because it provides reliable antimicrobial support within mild preservation systems while adding light emolliency, with a comparatively low sensitization profile versus stronger preservatives. It generally needs to work alongside other preservatives rather than carry a formula alone, which keeps it at Good.
What it does
Skin Benefits
Helps products stay fresher for longer by discouraging spoilage, while providing a light skin-softening touch. Contributes to a more pleasant, non-greasy application feel.
Where you'll find it
Uses in Skincare & Cosmetics
Used in lotions, serums, and cleansers as part of gentle preservation systems, frequently alongside other mild preservatives. Also appears in natural-leaning creams and deodorant formats.
Before you use it
Safety
May cause mild irritation for very sensitive skin, particularly at higher concentrations or in leave-on products. Patch testing is prudent if prone to reactivity. No major cosmetic-specific regulatory limits are commonly cited at standard use levels.
Products with Glyceryl Undecylenate
